Root Canals

The thought of a root canal makes many people recoil, and a lot of this fear comes from a misunderstanding of what a root canal is and why it’s performed.

While many decades ago, dentistry wasn’t as advanced as it is now and root canals were much more uncomfortable, advancements in the field have allowed for better treatments and increased pain relief. 

So, you don’t have to be afraid. Instead, understand that root canals are an effective treatment that’s meant to remove pain, not add more. At OKC Smiles, our dental team provides root canal treatments that are performed in a caring environment. Learn more by calling us or sending a message to book an appointment.

Gentle Root Canal Treatment In Oklahoma City

Root canals have become one of the most culturally feared general dentistry procedures out there. These rampant fears come from the traumatized victims of outdated dentistry. OKC Smiles offers top quality and cutting-edge dentistry. We can make even the most dental-phobic people comfortable and calm during their treatments.

For those who are very nervous about root canals, we offer sedation dentistry, which calms even the most anxious patients. We provide our root canal therapy services to patients who come to us from all over Oklahoma City, including Moore, OK, and Norman, OK.

What Is a Root Canal?

The root canal treatment procedure removes infected, inflamed, and/or otherwise affected nerve pulp within a tooth. The pulp cavity, or root canal, is opened, and then this nerve pulp is carefully removed. In case you are concerned, the nerve pulp is no longer needed in mature teeth and only serves to function as a pain epicenter if damaged. Once the pulp is removed, the toothache you were feeling will be gone.

Depending on the extensiveness of the damage and the state of the tooth, the tooth will either be filled with a durable, tooth-colored resin or a permanent prosthetic dental crown will be used to replace your natural tooth crown. Don’t worry, OKC Smiles places beautiful dental crowns that most would never be able to tell are not natural.

How Do I Know if I Need a Root Canal?

Recognizing the need for a root canal often starts with unusual discomfort in your mouth. You may experience a severe toothache, especially when chewing or applying pressure. Prolonged sensitivity to hot or cold, even after the sensation has been removed, is another telltale sign. Darkened or discolored teeth, swelling and tenderness in nearby gums, or a pimple-like bump on your gums are also common symptoms.

Persistent or recurring pain can be a sign that the tooth’s nerve is affected. However, sometimes no symptoms are present. That’s why regular dental check-ups are crucial to catch issues early. If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your dentist promptly.

How Do I Prevent Root Canals?

Most people need root canals because tooth decay has progressed so far that it can’t be treated by a simple cavity filling. So, one of the best ways to avoid getting a root canal is to address any cavities or tooth decay right away.

Generally, you can prevent a root canal by following a consistent oral hygiene routine that includes brushing, flossing, and seeing the dentist. However,  some people are more prone to tooth decay than others, so you may need more frequent cleanings or preventive measures.

Sedation Dentistry for Root Canals

For many patients who may be experiencing a toothache or tooth infection, the thought of a “root canal” causes them fear or anxiety because they are worried that the procedure will be painful. The root canal procedure is actually quite minimal but can be made even more comfortable with sedation dentistry. We provide sedation dentistry for root canals and other procedures to help ensure that your experience is relaxing and pain-free.

Whether you choose sedation dentistry or not, we ensure that the root canal procedure is as comfortable as possible. We provide various pain relief treatments, such as local anesthesia, so you can get the treatment you need as quickly as possible.

Learn More About Sedation Dentistry

Root Canals Don’t Have to Be Scary—Contact Us Today!

If you are feeling pain and discomfort in your tooth, don’t put treatment off. The decay and infection causing the pain will not go away on their own and will often cause more damage the longer you let the infection go. Don’t let your previous ideas of antiquated root canals prevent you from achieving permanent tooth pain relief. We will take every step to make sure you are perfectly comfortable and calm for your treatment.

Contact OKC Smiles today to schedule a free root canal consultation. We look forward to meeting you!